The new-generation Jeep Compass has arrived in Europe, and it brings a bold new look and a modern platform.
But does it have the substance to back up its rugged appearance?
We spent several days with the Compass e-Hybrid in high-spec First Edition trim to find out if it can compete in Europe's crowded compact SUV segment.
Larger and Boxier Design
The new Compass is built on the STLA Medium architecture, a clean-sheet design that replaces the aging FCA-era underpinnings.
It's grown by 147 mm in length to 4,552 mm, and its wheelbase has stretched by 159 mm to 2,795 mm.
Visually, the Compass adopts the boxier styling language first seen on the smaller Avenger, but it retains unique cues like aggressive headlights and distinctive taillight graphics.
The short rear overhang and stretched wheelbase give it a slightly odd stance from some angles.
Our test car featured the new Amazonia paint, a brown hue with green iridescent highlights, plus a black roof, 18-inch dark alloy wheels, and aluminum-look skid plates.
Spacious and Well-Equipped Cabin
Inside, the Compass offers a distinct Jeep ambiance with quality materials and clever storage solutions.
The centerpiece is a wide 16-inch infotainment touchscreen with crisp graphics, though its operation isn't as intuitive as some rivals.
Rear passengers gain 55 mm of extra legroom, and the flat floor improves comfort for a third occupant.
The boot is 25.6% larger at 550 liters, but it can't match the Citroen C5 Aircross's sliding rear bench.
Our First Edition came loaded with features like massaging front seats, a 360-degree camera, matrix LED headlights, and Level 2 ADAS.
However, the driver assistance buttons on the steering wheel were unresponsive, an issue Jeep says a software update will fix.
Under the hood, the e-Hybrid is a front-wheel-drive mild hybrid with a 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo engine producing 144 hp.
It's paired with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic, and while the Selec-Terrain system offers modes for slippery conditions, there's no rear axle for serious off-roading.
On the road, the powertrain is adequate for daily driving but requires high revs to extract performance, pushing fuel consumption closer to 8 lt/100 km than the claimed 5.6 lt/100 km.
The ride is mature and predictable, with direct steering and a slightly stiffer suspension than other Stellantis SUVs.
For those wanting more power, Jeep offers a fully electric version with 213 hp and a plug-in hybrid with 222 hp, both front-wheel drive.
An AWD variant is expected later.
